ASK IRA: Does Paul George's injury further muddle East?

Q: First, I want to extend best thoughts and wishes to Paul George and a full recovery from his leg injury. Never like to see any competitor get hurt. Business-wise, does this open the door for a Heat return to the Finals? -- Harold, Wellington.

A: First, what matters most at this stage, of course, is Paul's health. Here was someone playing for his country, going above and beyond. No one deserves what he experienced. It certainly also will give teams pause about their stars competing in the NBA's annual offseason grinders, in what has become more about marketing than patriotism. What has gotten lost in the concerns about the Pacers' standing in the East is that Indiana already had lost Lance Stephenson, forced to replace him on the cheap with Rodney Stuckey. Even before George's injury, Indiana looked like it was going to fall somewhere behind the Bulls, Cavaliers (assuming Kevin Love is in place) and in the pack with the Heat, Wizards and Raptors. Now Indiana could be in a struggle just to make the playoffs, with David West having to do far more at his age than he ever could have imagined. And even with an injured-player exception, it's not as if the Pacers have the wherewithal to make free-agent bid for Eric Bledsoe or Greg Monroe. The irony is that the Pacers certainly could use Danny Granger these days.

A: Pat Riley always knows something we don't (including what you had for breakfast this morning). And that's the thing, the Heat were well aware of Williams' workouts and how he had attracted interest from numerous teams. As Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders posted on Twitter, "Shawne Williams had been training at IMG Academy with Dan Barto, word was he looks great likely why Miami taking a chance on him." While the Heat share little about their evaluations, they have been looked at myriad players this summer, including a look at Toure Murry while they were involved in summer league in Las Vegas. As for Beasley, I remain for them bringing him back.

Q: Why another forward? The 1-4 spots are full, yet they get Shawne Williams instead of a center that we need. Why haven't Greg Oden or Andray Blatche been pursued? -- Chata, Virginia Gardens.

A: What's interesting is Blatche has been working out in Miami with the Philippines national team, so there has been recent proximity. Whether Blatche would be amenable to the minimum salary is another story.

August 2, 2014

Q: Ira, I like what I heard -- a lot -- from Dwyane Wade about his plans after LeBron James left. He looks in better shape, with a chip on his shoulder. Heat fans still remember what he can do without LeBron. Maybe we haven't see the last of Flash. -- Tom.

A: Actually, Dwyane was quick to caution at his fantasy camp that those days, his do-it-by-himself days, are over. And that's fine, because when Wade was doing it on his own in the immediate years before LeBron arrived, the Heat were nothing more than a one-and-done playoff team when it came to first-round exits. In Chris Bosh, Dwyane has a better supporting star than he had in any of his pre-LeBron days (an argument could be made for Shaquille O'Neal, but his descent was rapid with the Heat). What the Heat need is a Wade with the maturity to play off Bosh (and Josh McRoberts and Luol Deng), as well as a Wade who can be there just about every night for his teammates. His candor Friday was refreshing, as was his perspective of not looking back at the loss of LeBron, but rather at what's ahead.

Q: Ira, am I the only one who thinks the Heat may actually be a better team this year than last? I think the loss of James will lead to increased production from Wade, Mario Chalmers and Bosh. I also think the free agents Pat Riley picked up are likely upgrades over last year's bench. Lastly, I think Erik Spoelstra will have more of an opportunity to coach this year without the burden of keeping James content. I have visions of watching our point guard bring the ball up court to a team where everyone is now an option. I am actually more excited about the coming season than I have been in quite a while. -- Brian, Mount Vernon, Wash.

A: Yes, you are the only one who thinks the Heat will be better with LeBron. Even for the biggest of optimists, that's a stretch. Will they be more interesting? More intriguing? Perhaps. No team loses LeBron James and is better.

A: Because I'm not sure there was $10 million over two years out there for him at his age. I think it was the Heat's way of essentially turning his tenure into a four-year, $12 million deal, after he agreed to play at the minimum these past two years, when he likely could have earned more elsewhere. The loyalty was the past two years.

August 1, 2014

Q: Ira, I know that Erik Spoelstra likes to slow-cook rookies, but with the lack of shooting-guard depth requiring Mario Chalmers to play some two, do you see Shabazz Napier getting regular minutes? -- Luis.

A: First, there is plenty of time for the Heat to add depth, possibility quality depth, at shooting guard. There also is a chance the Heat trades Norris Cole to facilitate such depth on the wing, which could open minutes at the point. At this stage, Shabazz reminds me of Bimbo Coles when he arrived to the Heat, with a suspect shot but plenty of polish to his game. If Napier can offer quality defensive consistency, then, yes, he has a chance. But it is very difficult to play point guard, or almost any perimeter position, in today's NBA without a reliable jumper.

Q: Ira, I find it shocking on several levels that Pat Riley had no perception of LeBron James' departure less than 48 hours before the announcement. James' attitude from the time the Finals were no longer in doubt, [he completely separated himself from the team from the time he left Game 5], coupled with his non-responsiveness to Riley's efforts to communicate while in the process of reloading and restocking within the parameters of James' desires and expectations, is completely inconsistent with Riley's on-top-of-things persona and demeanor. If he was blown away by the departure after their meeting in Vegas, something doesn't add up. -- Joel.

Q: I expected James to lead Riley to his retirement very much like Tim Duncan is doing for Gregg Popovich. He could have been lead (even as a President) by a guy who has had Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Patrick Ewing, Alonzo Mourning, James Worthy among other Hall Of Famers. Why leave something this good, this well-built? I think players dream of having the perfect place to work at. I just can't understand how someone can walk away from this. I know you will say, "Let it go" or 'Move on." -- Julio.

A: I don't think LeBron ever was wed to Riley (or even Micky Arison). I think he was wed to Dwyane Wade, felt he helped deliver two titles to his buddy, but ultimately couldn't trust Wade's knees.

[Note: While there has been a push by several readers to move on from the LeBron questions, the reality is that these questions continue to flood the in-box. It is why I led today's edition with something else, even though there were 10-times as many LeBron questions as others.]

July 31, 2014

Q: Ira, the thing I've always admired about Pat Riley is how is has been so forward-thinking. So why rehash everything that went on with LeBron James? What does that accomplish? -- Ernesto.

A: I think like everything else, it's difficult to move on without closure. To be honest, during the teleconference I was peppering more with questions about Danny Granger, Josh McRoberts and even Mario Chalmers. I'm intrigued about what could come next. I also think more than a few players on this team could use some time outside of the spotlight. I'm not sure in this social-media world that Riley's vision of "generational" teams ever can return. For example, look even now at the build-up leading to Kevin Durant's 2016 free agency, let alone the talk about playing back home with the Wizards. Players used to be able to live in the moment. Those days are gone. And, yes, LeBron could be a free agent all over again next summer. As for Riley's forward-thinking views, he also is among the first to reflect back on his previous players and teams. It's better to reflect back now than when there are actual games being played.

A: Actually, with the way this roster is comprised, with just Dwyane Wade at shooting guard, and with Chalmers, Norris Cole and Shabazz Napier at point guard, it makes some sense to envision time for Chalmers at the two. Plus, Riley sounds like he is viewing Danny Granger more as a three-four than a two-three. It could come down to whether James Ennis is ready, and Riley did not sound sold on that aspect.

Q: I hear rumors of Chalmers or possible Norris Cole getting traded. Is there a possibility of a large trade happening within the Heat still? -- Mariah, Miami Springs.

A: Chalmers, or any free agent signed this offseason, cannot be dealt until Dec. 15, per the collective-bargaining agreement. But I do think it's possible Cole could be put into play to better balance the roster. Of course, at $2 million, Cole also is somewhat of a value player.

July 30, 2014

Q: How likely is it that Kevin Durant would leave the Thunder to join the Miami Heat? -- Andy, Hialeah.

A: This is what I hate about today's NBA, that it's always about waiting for the next big thing, clearing out salary-cap space, or at least having the flexibility to open it, for the next big potential free agent. For as difficult as it was for the Heat to lose LeBron James, think of teams like the Mavericks, Suns and even Lakers who interviewed with LeBron's agent but never had any legitimate chance of signing him. There are way too many variables with Durant over the next two seasons to know what direction he might take. And, frankly, I don't think fans should wish away two years of their lives on the longshot hope of a superstar arriving. Enjoy the next two seasons. That's what quality franchises should aspire to, the way the Mavericks have kept themselves in the playoff race for years, the way Micky Arison has vowed to do the same with the Heat.

Q: Ira, this writer, 84, has been a keen observer of the NBA, ABA, Harlem Globetrotters, NCAA, etc., for the past 68 years. I have seen every great Hall of Fame member since I graduated Boys High in 1949. At 16, I lived in the same apartment house with Lionel Malamed of NIT and NCAA fame when he was at CCNY. I moved to Florida 22 years ago, and after some time I started rooting for the Heat. My question is: Is Michael Beasley still on the Heat for next season? Thank you. -- Berny, Palm Beach Gardens.

A: After all that build up, how can I not answer? That, of course, does not mean there are any easy answers. My sense is that Michael will be a fallback option, if that, that the Heat want to move on, create a new atmosphere in the locker room. It doesn't mean it has anything to do with what Michael did on or off the court, rather that with the departure of LeBron, there is a desire for a sense of a new vitality. I still believe the Heat should give Michael another season if he is comfortable with a minimum salary and no guarantee of playing time.

Q: LeBron's number should be retired. There won't be another Heat player in the next twenty years who is a two-time regular season MVP as well as Finals MVP. -- Winston, Auckland, New Zealand.

A: Actually, I think LeBron switching back to No. 23 with the Cavaliers will make it easier for the Heat. When No. 6 is raised to the rafters at AmericanAirlines Arena, it would be for what happened with the Heat, and only the Heat. Besides, No. 23 already has been retired by the Heat.

July 29, 2014

Q: Ira, kudos to Micky Arison with the classy way he addressed fans with his open letter. But I still don't understand how he could be so appreciative of "Heat Nation" and not understand how much Mike Miller meant to his team. That was a mistake, wasn't it? -- Ken.

A: Look, Micky has done plenty right for both his team's fans and his team's players. But the Miller decision, in retrospect, appears to have been premature. Of course it's always easy to look back, in retrospect, at what would have been. Had the Heat won the NBA Finals (perhaps if the Spurs didn't make it out of the West), then few, including LeBron James, would have been lamenting what Miller could have given them instead of savings on the luxury tax. My sense is Pat Riley wanted to hold on to Mike, but it was Micky's money, and therefore Micky's choice. LeBron got Arison and the Heat to add or re-sign plenty of players he favored.

Q: Although the wounds of LeBron James leaving are still raw, I hope now or some day in the future Heat fans can look fondly with great appreciation for what the Miami Heat accomplished the last four years the same way Joe Torre remembered his years with the Yankees with grace, dignity and fond memories. We had something special for four years. Now let's go out and beat LeBron and the Cavaliers next season. -- Stuart.

A: Time tends to heal most wounds. I'm still surprised to this day how publicly gracious the Heat have been toward Shaquille O'Neal after all Shaq pulled on the way out of Miami, including basically refusing to play.

Q: South Florida needs to put LeBron James in its rear view mirror like he did to it. -- J.K.

A: And that's the contrasting view. I think the sting will wear off soon enough. And LeBron remains one of the most compelling forces in the game, too big to ignore. Just as the after-stories about so many former Heat players remain relevant, I think the same will be true of LeBron.

July 28, 2014

Q: Hey Ira, do you think Pat Riley has another trick under his sleeve? I know Chris Bosh hasn't officially signed his contract yet and he was willing to take a pay cut before. Do you think he can still take a little less pay before he signs and Miami can land another key name? -- Vince, North Carolina.

A: Chris hasn't signed because he hasn't been around, spending much of July traveling overseas. But his deal is done, and done at a figure high enough that he bypassed the temptation of playing alongside Dwight Howard and James Harden in his native Texas. No, Chris will get his, all of his. Plus, the way the Heat used their "room" salary-cap exception on Udonis Haslem and early-Bird Rights on Chris Andersen, there would not be additional money to spend no matter what Chris signs for. In essence, the Heat had to bring in Luol Deng at the exact figure of space left under the cap with Bosh's contract. So if Chris were to have taken less, it would have gone to Deng, anyway. Basically what you see is what you will get.

Q: Ira, I am still missing something in the cap code. So you say the Heat used cap space for Deng, so basically there is none left now. Can they still opt to go over the cap and pay the luxury tax? -- Glen, Lighthouse Point.

A: No, teams most often go over the tax during years when they're already operating above the salary cap and either using additional exceptions (none of which the Heat have left at their disposal for 2014-15) or make trades to take on additional salary (which the Heat cannot do until Dec. 15, when contracts signed this offseason can be traded). The Heat could become a tax team as soon as the 2015-16 season, or earlier should they trade one of their big-ticket players for either a bigger-ticket player or multiple players this season (which seems unlikely considering the magnitude of Bosh's contract and Dwyane Wade's no-trade clause). It's not a matter of if the Heat are willing to pay the tax for the upcoming season, it's the reality that under cap rules they essentially can't lift their 2014-15 payroll to such levels.

Q: Ira, the final free-agent pieces for the Heat could be Emeka Okafor (if healthy) and Jordan Crawford for insurance at center and shooting guard. Any thoughts if they could be gotten at minimums? -- Howard, Palm City.

A: Not at this point, not with teams still holding cap space and salary-cap exceptions in excess of $4 million and $5 million. This is why free-agency has slowed to a crawl, which could remain the case for a while, as is the case every summer.

July 27, 2014

Q: Ira, how long will it take Pat Riley to pick up any players? Jordan Crawford is still out there and MarShon Brooks. -- Joe, Birmingham, Alabama.

A: This tends to be a period when veteran free agents wait to see if something above the minimum might still be available, perhaps all or part of a remaining mid-level exception somewhere, or even the bi-annual exception. Once those exceptions, plus any remaining available cap space around the league expires (some teams, though, seemingly have no interest in spending to the cap, the lose-now 76ers among them), then the minimums tend to fill out. You can rest assured that Pat Riley and his staff are continuing to push veterans for commitments. The problem with the Heat is that a player looking for exposure on the wing might have little sense about where Danny Granger stands with the Heat, when it comes to available minutes in the Heat's perimeter rotation.

Q: Mario Chalmers isn't as bad as most fans think, although with such a quality point guard-saturated league why can't Miami do better?! -- Grant, Lake Havasu, Arizona.

A: First, you can't have the best player at every position, considering how the salary cap works. And, as I've said before, I think you'll see more from Chalmers now that LeBron James is gone, simply because there has to be more. But I also think you still could see a restructuring from the Heat at point guard, where Chalmers, Norris Cole and Shabazz Napier already are under contract. With $7 million tied up at the position, I wouldn't be surprised if the Heat thin out that group in favor of a wing, and then perhaps add a veteran point guard at the veteran-minimum salary.

Q: I have seen several suggestions for the Heat's three remaining roster spots, including the latest: Rip Hamilton. Doesn't it make more sense to take a chance on some unproven prospects in the hope to develop some usable talent later on? -- Joaquin, Coral Gables.

A: I think you'll see something closer to a redeployment of the Heat's development program, at least with James Ennis and Napier (and it would be intriguing to also add Tyler Johnson from the Heat's summer-league team, as well). But I also think it's also important to still add a veteran wing defender, someone who already knows tendencies around the league. That's a tough spot to utilize a young player, even one with the athleticism of Ennis.

July 26, 2014

Q: Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade will see double teams the entire season. And now Wade will be defended by a better defender than last year. The Heat will need to become a defensive giant if they are to contend. -- Martin.

A: You raise an interesting point about Dwyane, considering that the opposing perimeter defensive stopper the past four seasons placed his focus on LeBron James. To be honest, it's not something I considered when writing about an expected revival by Wade. While Luol Deng is a competent scorer, it's not as if you need to defend him with a stopper. Considering Dwyane had so much trouble creating space off the dribble during the latter stages of the playoffs, it will be interesting to see if playing at a lighter weight helps with his agility. The challenge figure to be raised across the board for the Heat this coming season.

Q: Even during the Big Three era and going back to Alonzo Mourning and Tim Hardaway, the Heat teams have at times been offensively challenged. Look at the film from the NBA Finals (not taking anything away from the Spurs), but some of the Heat's offensive sets were terrible. So even with a lot of talent, the Heat have been challenged on offense. Why not sign Jordan Crawford? He can create on his own and score baskets in bunches. Somehow, I think the Heat can use some instant offense next year despite a core of Bosh, Wade and Deng. What do you say? -- Stuart.

A: That is why I think another chance for Michael Beasley could be in order. He does have a way of getting buckets. And I've been advocating Crawford for weeks now, but I'm not sure the minimum (which is all the Heat have left cap-wise) can get it done. Packaging Norris Cole and Justin Hamilton for a scorer earning $3 million or so just might have to be considered.

Q: Hi Ira, you recently said the Heat have no more cap room other than the minimum. The current players earn less than last year and there are those exceptions. Why can't the Heat pay someone more than the minimum? -- Herwig, Koflach, Austria.

A: Because in any offseason you use cap space, which the Heat did with Deng, you essentially have to round out your entire roster right around the salary cap (which is why the Heat will not be paying the luxury tax this coming season). Had the Heat not used cap space on Deng, they could have gone way over both the cap and tax, with larger offers to Wade and Udonis Haslem, as well as possibly spending the full mid-level exception. They instead felt it was more prudent to add Deng and deal with the accompanying limitations.

July 25, 2014

Q: Ira, your paper and the Herald have had stories about how with LeBron gone, this can become a football town again. My question: Nowhere in those stories does anyone say they expect the Dolphins to have a better record than the Heat. -- Ian, Miramar.

A: First, I've been on the record for years, even during the Shaq and LeBron eras, as saying this was, is and will remain a football town. It is in South Florida's DNA. I get that. But I also know that South Florida embraces winning more than any player or any team. It is why the basketball buzz was the most significant buzz these past four years. All of that said, I think your greater point should resonate: Many still see a Chris Bosh-Dwyane Wade-led roster as approaching the 50-victory mark this coming season. Does anyone expect such a winning percentage from the Dolphins or Marlins or Panthers (I'm not as sure about University of Miami football, considering they play an Atlantic Coast Conference schedule)? The point being that even with the loss of LeBron, the Heat very well could remain the lone playoff team among the four major-sports teams in South Florida.

Q: What's the downside in retiring numbers? I noticed they gave James Ennis what was Shaquille O'Neal's old number. I mean, wouldn't you want to retire the numbers of some of the greatest players in the game? For all of Shaq's burned bridges, it's impressive to be able to boast that one of the greatest centers of all-time played for your team. I'd still retire LeBron James' jersey just the same. If you won a championship and this player was a huge part of that, I think it's worth a retired jersey. Or is there some type of code that teams adhere to? -- Moshe.

A: I think because of the way Shaq left, they didn't even think about it, and then first gave it to Mickell Gladness, before now giving No. 32 to Ennis. But teams also have had players wear numbers for players that later were retired, so Shaq could yet have his Heat moment. It is why I doubt Mario Chalmers would be allowed to go back to his previous No. 6, as the Heat just leave LeBron's number in place for the moment. Of course, Chalmers wanted his collegiate No. 15 all along, with Mark Blount wearing it when Chalmers first arrived to the Heat in 2008.

Q: I see Rip Hamilton wants to play again. I'd take him as a third point guard in a heartbeat. -- David.

A: First, he's a shooting guard, which certainly is a position of need for the Heat, with depth lacking behind Wade. But I'm not sure the Heat are in a position to be looking at a player who has been out of the league for a year. It could come down to what else is left closer to the end of free agency. For now, there certainly are more enticing names out there. The question is whether they would be willing to play for the minimum, which Rip apparently is.

July 24, 2014

Q: Ira, what are the chances the Heat bring back Michael Beasley and Greg Oden? Do you see more of a featured role for them if they do come back? I think Beasley would be a nice fit on this squad. He isn't great at defense, but he isn't atrocious, and his offense can be much needed. -- Rick, Coral Springs.

A: I agree that with the current mix, where Danny Granger currently stands as the top reserve to Dwyane Wade at shooting guard, that keeping Beasley as a wing wound make some sense, for the one-on-one offense that at times is needed. I also think there could be more patience with LeBron James gone, as far as putting up with Michael's lapses. But his defense has to get better, especially with the Heat lacking rim protection when Chris Andersen is out of the game. As for Oden, I just don't sense a comfort or commitment to spot him for regular minutes, which is something I think Greg wants to see if he still is capable of handling.

Q: What do you expect the Heat to do with the rest of their cap space? -- Steve.

A: Nothing, because they don't have any. And the Heat used their last salary-cap exception to bring back Udonis Haslem. But it's also been somewhat overstated that the Heat now can only sign players at the veteran minimum. The Heat also can add players via trades. And that makes Norris Cole somewhat of a valuable chip, with his $2 million salary creating permutations that could grow even greater when added to Justin Hamilton's contract, which does not become even partially guaranteed until Aug. 1. And remember, Pat Riley tends to add intriguing pieces at the minimum closer to camp, as he did last season with Beasley and Roger Mason Jr. (who also remains available).

Q: Hey Ira, do you think once the Chris Bosh World Tour is over that it would benefit him to do some work with Hakeem Olajuwon much like LeBron did a couple of years back? I think it may be beneficial, seeing as he will likely be getting more work in the post this upcoming season. -- Karl, Miami.

A: The thing is, Chris already has post moves; they've just been dormant in recent years. Plus, his style is a bit different than Olajuwon's, with more of a face-up, mid-post game that allows for the threat of his mid-range jumper. Look, Erik Spoelstra helped find games that maximized the possibilities for LeBron and Wade in recent years, and I would expect that he'll be spending plenty of time at the Oregon Coast coming up with possibilities for Bosh and the rest of his reconfigured mix.

July 23, 2014

Q: Ira, I've read (and listened) where you've said that if LeBron James told the Heat earlier that he was leaving, the Heat would have taken a different approach to free agency. But if they did get Kyle Lowry or Marcin Gortat, they might not have been able to add as many players. -- Felix.

A: You have a point. If the Heat did overbid for Lowry or Gortat, and if Chris Bosh still wanted his max deal, then it might have been just a single tangible addition, instead of Luol Deng, Josh McRoberts and Danny Granger. In fact, if the Heat had more cap space at the start of free agency, it is possible they would have spent significantly more on Deng. Look, I like the Deng addition at his price point, and the same with McRoberts. As for Granger? It is a typical Pat Riley-esque risk, some of which work, some of which don't. I will say this: For a team that lost LeBron James, the Heat did well to avoid the tag of free-agency's biggest loser. They played the space race well, perhaps better than if LeBron had left earlier. You raise a reasonable point.

Q: Hello Ira, I am concerned that the Heat have not made any additional moves to address their lack of height and rebounding. "Small Ball" was a bit of a stretch even with LeBron. Any thoughts? -- Roger, Miami.

A: You can only add what's available and what's within your means. Yes, they might have been able to get Chris Kaman instead of McRoberts, or Spencer Hawes instead of Deng, but I think the initial approach has to be maximizing the roster's overall talent. And when the Heat went for height and bulk last summer, in Greg Oden, it was largely unplayable height and bulk. There still is time and there still is length out there. Riley will pounce if he sees value and someone who is serviceable in this system.

Q: The Heat should have traded their draft pick for Iman Shumpert when they had the chance? -- Vince, Hollywood.

A: In hindsight, perhaps, but there also were salary-cap implications there. As it is, the Knicks seem to be having a backcourt fire sale, so perhaps we may yet get our first Phil Jackson-Pat Riley trade.

July 22, 2014

Q: Hey Ira, you always hear that the truly great players make their teammates better. Now, I'm not arguing with the Heat's success with LeBron James, but do you feel that he made anyone better? Seems like, at least stat-wise, many players did worse as the years went on. I know age/injury were responsible for some of that, but I'd like to get your thoughts. -- Jerry, Fort Lauderdale

A: I think in addition to all being witnesses with LeBron, some also turn into spectators. That is only natural when LeBron advances the ball, taps on his chest, indicates that he is taking this one himself. And, yes, there is a natural sacrifice of statistics when a teammate no longer is a leading man. But LeBron's passing and playmaking also allowed teammates to have career-best shooting percentages, as he attracted the defense's focus. All of that said, I do think you will see certain aspects from returning Heat players that had not been on full display in recent seasons. And the reality is those aspects now have to be on display.

Q: Ira, looking at James Ennis from summer league last year to this year, you can see the growth in his game. Why don't teams send players overseas more often? -- Carlos.

A: Because NBA teams try to stock their Development League rosters, where coaches affiliated with the parent team can ingrain their system. And I do think the Heat developed players last season with the Sioux Falls Skyforce. But I think the experience overseas opened Ennis' eyes, with Australia's league, well, a man's league, physical and rugged. I think the experience did James, well, a world of good.

Q: Ira, why don't we all stop following and talking about LeBron? He is gone. There is nothing he is going to do for Miami Heat now, so why bother? -- Ernesto, Plantation.

A: I agree that it's time to move on. Of course, I'm also a sentimental sort, still longing for a return by Vladimir Stepania.

July 21, 2014

Q: I know it's not ideal, but do you think Erik Spoelstra will insert Birdman into the starting lineup? I think it's asking too much of Chris Bosh to not only score 20-plus per game but also be responsible for anchoring the defense. -- Kevin.

A: Not with Josh McRoberts aboard. McRoberts was a durable, every-game starter for Charlotte and I think the Heat should keep it that way. And Chris Andersen is the type of instant energy the Heat need off the bench. Plus, let's face it, when committing that much salary to Andersen for two years, at his age you want to make sure there will be enough left for the playoffs. Now, if you're asking if I would play Andersen alongside Bosh at times, absolutely, perhaps when McRoberts initially checks out of the game.

Q: You tweet about it and joke about it, but how come you do not answer "Ask Ira" questions about Mario Chalmers? You say Pat Riley ignored "outside noise" and signed Chalmers. There was plenty of inside noise, as well. Specifically what does the Riley see in Mario that the fans and sometimes fellow players who are frustrated with his game do not? -- Stone, Miami.

A: First, the players grow "frustrated" because they know that with a bit more consistency that Mario can be a significant contributor. He is an excellent spot-up shooter, creates turnovers with his length and activity, and appreciates in a star-driven league when it's time to get out of the way. And he can be efficient and explosive when attacking the rim, which I think you'll see more of with LeBron James gone.

Q: At the end of the NBA Finals, some were calling for Dwyane Wade moving to the bench as sixth-man due to his failing body. Now it appears that he will be asked to carry more of a load this upcoming season. Realistically, how good can we be with this Wade? -- Rene, Davie.

A: We'll see soon enough. But I remember the last time Wade was counted out and how he responded with a vengeance. I think the chip on Wade's shoulder will be bigger than any knee sleeve.

July 20, 2014

Q: Ira, as well as opening up cap room for a pitch to free agents in 2016, do these new Heat contracts also give Pat Riley more flexibility to make trades in the next couple of years? He has been limited in the players he could trade in recent years due to so many players opting to play for less to play with LeBron James. -- Sam, London.

A: Terrific point. In recent years, and even during this free-agency period, the Heat have had few options either for trades or sign-and-trade possibilities. Now, Riley can mix and match. No, that was not the reasoning for the way these contracts were structured, but it does put Riley back in the market. In recent years, the Heat largely had to sit out the trade deadline and hope for something to fall into their laps at the buyout deadline. This time, there will be trades pieces to put in play at the deadline, but no remaining cash or cap exceptions for the buyout deadline.

Q: Let's assume that LeBron spends the rest of his career in a Cavs uniform without winning a title. Does he go in the Hall of Fame wearing Heat colors or Cavs colors? Also, would Miami ever considering retiring his jersey, seeing that he only spent four years here? Granted, the four years were really special and should be recognized by the Heat organization. -- Andrew, West Palm Beach.

A: Unlike baseball's Hall of Fame, you are not enshrined into the Basketball Hall of Fame with a particular team designation. In basketball, that is particularly sensible, with free agency and so many trades. It's sort of similar to those who had asked when Tim Hardaway was a recent finalist, whether he should go in as part of the Run TMC Warriors or from the Heat. As for LeBron's number being retired by the Heat, I think four years falls short of any legitimate requirement. Of course, Riley does enjoy displaying jerseys at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Q: Mario Chalmers? -- Roy.

A: You know what? Mario has done well by this franchise, and has never had a salary where anyone truly could say he was overpaid. To get a starter at a below-average salary just seems like good business.

July 19, 2014

Q: Ira, what makes you or Pat Riley or Micky Arison or anyone believe that Chris Bosh can be a leading man again? -- Len.

A: First, I don't think that's the approach that Chris is taking, has taken since leaving the Raptors. He appreciates that it takes a depth of talent, which is why it is important to him that he remained alongside Dwyane Wade, as well as the type of talent Riley has added, such as Luol Deng. The reality is that in the NBA you overpay at times. This, amid the devastation of the departure of LeBron James, is one of those times there is a benefit to overpaying. The signing of Bosh stabilized the Heat's situation. And the one thing about Chris since his Heat arrival is that when given the opportunity, he has seized it. His play these past four years inspires confidence. And the sense is there is a newfound motivation.

Q: As an outsider looking in, I think LeBron James felt that Dwayne Wade was not a max-contract player. He knows Wade is not the same player on offense or defense he was a few years ago, and signing a contract to stay with the same group without room to change, he would have not won again. -- Mark, Nashville.

A: Which should be all the motivation Dwyane needs, to make those head-to-head matchups what they were like when LeBron previously played for the Cavaliers. And perhaps for Wade to invite LeBron to his playoff games after James' team is eliminated. It may not have been the reasoning, but LeBron surely has provided ample motivation for Dwyane.

Q: Something tells me the A/C might not be working when the Cavs come to town. -- David.

A: Funny. Guess LeBron won't have to worry about overheating and cramping up playing in Cleveland in the dead of winter.

July 18, 2014

Q: As Dan Gilbert prepares to let LeBron James' inner circle overtake his franchise again, and amidst reports that Pat Riley and Micky Arison were holding the line on how they wanted the Heat organization to be run, which is the right approach? -- David, Staten Island.

A: The reality is that when you can wield the type of power that LeBron can, you have no choice but to capitulate. While the reasoning for James taking a two-year deal from the Cavaliers has been the greater cut of television money that should be available in the 2016 offseason, I think it's because with the one-year opt out, he can continue to hold the hammer against management, at least present the threat of possibly leaving. It actually is a brilliant strategy. As for the Heat, they gave James every tool he needed to win. That is where they drew the line. His manager in the training room? Fine. Access for his family in the locker-room tunnel? Fine. His personal therapist brought in from the Cavaliers? Fine. Every whim and wish? Not when he still was part of a team.

A: First of all, the difference in the salaries is marginal. But at the point that the Heat locked up Deng, Stephenson still was pushing for more, actually far more. Plus, the Heat needed someone to replace LeBron James at small forward, with Stephenson more of a shooting guard or even combo guard, which would have created more duplication with Dwyane Wade. Beyond that, what the Heat most need in the wake of James' departure is stability, a strong-suit of Deng's, something far less with Stephenson. Does Stephenson have greater upside? That's a reasonable argument. But there's also history there with Lance. After losing LeBron, Deng was a heck of a consolation prize.

Q: Was James Jones even pursued by the Heat this offseason? -- Phil

A: My sense is the Heat sensed a need to shake things up, try to get younger, more athletic. Also, I think the challenge of carrying a roster with 14 starting-quality players began to weigh on the staff in keeping everyone content. Jones deserved minutes last season, but so did Rashard Lewis, Udonis Haslem, Michael Beasley and others. I think the goal now is to have a better-defined rotation and a development program on the side, where James Ennis, Shabazz Napier and perhaps Justin Hamilton can grow into something more.

Q: LeBron also wanted Zydrunas Ilgauskas when he was in Miami, and how did that work out? -- Michael.

A: If nothing else, LeBron is loyal to those who have been loyal to him, which is why he requested Ilgauskas' presence with the Heat in 2010, why he wanted Mike Miller with him in both Miami and now Cleveland, and why Jones is headed to Cleveland. That's what happens when a player also is de facto general manager. LeBron has considerable basketball sense, and sway. But it can get difficult for a coach when he knows his star player has personally delivered certain players to the rotation.

July 16, 2014

Q: Ira, I understand Dwyane Wade agreeing to a pay cut and being a team player. But why does he have an opt out after the first year? -- David.

A: Because what if he is super-fantastic again and merits a long-term deal like Chris Bosh? In the short term, Wade allowed the Heat to fit in several new pieces, including Josh McRoberts and Danny Granger, while also giving himself the chance to prove the Heat still might merit an A-list salary. No matter the outcome from here, Wade has proven to be the Heat's Dan Marino, sticking by the franchise for better or worse. He could have just stayed in his two-year, $42 million deal and never opted out in June. Instead, he facilitated the overall salary structure for the Heat's greater good. He appreciated the need to help set the table for the final years of his Heat career. Now, in 2016, the only Heat contracts on the books, at least at the moment, will be those of Chris Bosh and McRoberts. When Wade's jersey is hoisted to the rafters at AmericanAirlines Arena, it should rise to a position a bit higher than the others.

Q: I was thinking: Udonis Haslem could actually be useful next season, as without LeBron James, the Heat could bring back the pick-and-pop game. With LeBron, Haslem was asked to roll to the basket instead and it was just out of his comfort zone. The patented Haslem 15-footer just might make a comeback. -- Moshe.

A: And he might have to offer more, without as much depth of talent as in recent seasons, especially with Rashard Lewis off to the Mavericks. But while those shots might be there, the question is whether the shot can be as efficient as it once was. But someone will have to help make up for the rebounds lost with LeBron's departure.

Q: Does James Ennis crack the rotation next season? -- Jeffrey.

A: I think he will open with sort of the "Michael Beasley role," getting minutes when they might be there. From there, it could come down to both his adjustment, as well as how much Danny Granger has left. Ennis has shown in summer league that he can defend, which could be essential when it comes to potential playing time.

July 15, 2014

Q: If Pat Riley had known that LeBron James wouldn't be re-signing, do you think he would have still signed Josh McRoberts and Danny Granger, or do you think he would have gone in another direction? -- Moshe.

A: Look, Pat Riley does one thing particularly well, and that's think big. So if he had $17 million-plus in cap space at the start of free agency, had LeBron been candid from the start, then doubt he would have trimmed it into parcels where $5 million went to Josh McRoberts, $2 million to Danny Granger and then shopped with the remaining $10 million, which turned into Luol Deng. I think he would have been far more aggressive in pursuing Kyle Lowry and Marcin Gortat, or perhaps even delved into the trade market. LeBron had every right to do what he wanted. It's how he did it that impacted the Heat upon his departure. Argue whether it was the Heat helping LeBron get those two titles, or whether it was LeBron getting those two titles, but when it came to the partnership, it is clear that something went wrong along the way.

Q: In two years, do you really believe a 32-year-old Chris Bosh is going to be able to convince a 27-year-old Kevin Durant to abandon a 27-year-old Russell Westbrook to come join him in Miami? I don't, and I don't think you do, either. With very few exceptions, history has shown that the pathway to sustained NBA excellence is to draft a young star. I understand and support what Pat Riley is doing, but at some point, it's time to go all in on Blake Ahearn and Kasib Powell. -- Richard.

A: I think anything about Durant is overstated, because it remains such an abstract with two years still to play out. But, yes, I do think Chris has the type of game that should age gracefully and prove alluring, just as Miami will always prove alluring as a destination. And I don't agree about the lottery approach, because for every lottery star there is an Anthony Bennett. That's where I give credit to teams like the Mavericks and Hawks, for continuing to give their fans a playoff product. Yes, it's about championships. But it's also about watch-ability.

Q: It seems the roster has little in the way of 3-point shooters. What are your thoughts on addressing that? -- Brian.

A: Well, McRoberts, Bosh, Mario Chalmers, James Ennis, Danny Granger and others shoot 3-pointers on this roster at enough of a clip to keep the opposing defense somewhat honest. I think what the Heat want to do is get away from players who only shoot 3-pointers. Yes, you need to space the floor, but the question becomes whether you allow that to start compromising your rebounding and defense.

July 14, 2014

Q: Ira, Pat Riley is engineered for these circumstances. -- Alfredo.

A: Being candid here, I honestly thought the Heat were going to go into 2007-08 mode after the loss of LeBron James, just as they did when Shaquille O'Neal began shutting it down. Instead, Riley showed there's still plenty of fight left, that he, not Phil Jackson, will be the feistiest 69-year-old team president in the NBA. First there was the caution-to-the-wind contract for Chris Bosh, affirming a conviction that Bosh can be a build-around star. Then there was a wild Sunday when Riley locked up Luol Deng, shunned the outside noise about Mario Chalmers, and got Chris Andersen to agree without Andersen definitively knowing about his contract terms. Like I said on Twitter, if you're having your taxes done next year, consider having them done by Andy Elisburg, who knows the CBA better than any accountant could possibly know the tax code. The ultimate reality: There is plenty of fight left at 601 Biscayne. Good for them. Good for Heat fans.

Q: Could the Heat get Carlos Boozer if he is amnestied by the Bulls. -- Jayce.

A: You must have remaining cap space to bid during amnesty waivers. Only if a player clears that process without anyone making the minimum necessary bid can the player become a free agent, as was the case with Mike Miller last year, when there supposedly was considerable doubt about his health. Boozer is likely to receive a bid that would put him beyond the Heat's grasp.

Q: What about . . .? -- Everyone.

A: I have been receiving these non-stop ever since the Heat got active Sunday, especially names like Lance Stephenson, Eric Bledsoe and Greg Monroe. All three are restricted free agents, with their current teams allowed to match. The Heat not only lack the funds for a bidding war, they essentially lack any salary-cap funds beyond the veteran minimum. A proven veteran who joins the Heat from this point forward will be someone who is not making salary a priority.

July 13, 2014

Q: Perhaps I am in the minority, but I am not that upset that LeBron James is leaving. Yes, we have had four wonderful years with four Finals appearances and two championships, but being the overwhelming favorite every year can get boring. Think about it: The regular season has had little meaning other than determining if the Heat will get home-court advantage all the way through the playoffs or simply for the Eastern Conference finals. Every game was played with managing minutes of players to reach mid-April with optimum strength. With LeBron gone, the regular-season games will once again be significant. Young players will get a chance to develop, Chris Bosh has a chance to star instead of playing a supporting role and Pat Riley can rejuvenate himself by showing why he is the best executive in the NBA. I have been a Miami Heat fan since Game 1 in Year 1 back in 1988. My children were in elementary school back then and now have children of their own. We have gone through ups and downs with the Heat. We went through the Shaquille O'Neal years and won a championship and we have gone through the LeBron years with two more. Remember in that same time period that we won three championships our neighbor to the north, Orlando, has won none. So instead of being depressed and angry with LeBron, I say thanks for the memories, we wish you the best, you have gone back to Cleveland for very noble reasons, but I will be cheering along with my children and grandchildren for us to defeat you and the Cavaliers each and every time. A new Miami Heat era is about to begin. -- Jeffrey.

A: Wow. Powerful. And the point that resonates here is that every game will matter again, the standings will matter, there no longer can be coasting and cruising, and maintenance and marginal interest. Those games against the Jazz and 76ers and Kings and Bucks can't be blown off. It will be different, and it might not be as dynamic or dramatic, but I agree that it could be compelling in a different way than these past four seasons.

Q: It was a magical feeling being at AmericanAirlines Arena that June evening in 2012 when the Miami Heat won their first NBA championship (second overall) at home. Mike Miller couldn't miss and LeBron finally became a champion. As an NBA fan, I thought the championship only occurs in Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago and every few years in San Antonio. I hope LeBron James and Cavaliers fans get to experience that special feeling together one day. They deserve it. Thanks LeBron for creating so much joy on a summer night in June 2012. -- Stuart.

A: I've been getting more of these than the sniping I might have expected. It's almost as if there has been a domination hangover and a desire for something more competitive and intriguing. We shall see.

Q: The future looks bleak for the Heat. James was not going to play another season for two video coordinators disguised as coaches. When he saw the Orlando Heat summer-league team end up with a 1-4 record, James left. Dan Gilbert surely pointed this out to James about the Cavs new coach David Blatt, that time and time again, from Russia to Israel and several other prominent head coaching jobs in between, David has done one thing: win. James clearly sees the player-development program of the Heat is in shambles, and has a very poor track record of producing replacements for retiring veterans. Riley can shuffle around players, but the coaching staff needs to be shaken up and replaced with people who only know winning. The summer league may be about scouting, but the Heat should never accept losing on any level. Famously Kobe Bryant took on every competition, no matter how trivial, with the determination to win. -- L.K.

A: So summer league is the reason LeBron is gone? I knew it. It's all Nobel Boungou-Colo's fault. And while many reasons could be cited for the Heat's ugly finish in the Finals, how can anyone blame a coach who helped get his team to four consecutive NBA Finals?

July 12, 2014

Q: The thing I don't understand is the concept of going home. Earvin Magic Johnson grew up in Michigan and played his professional career in Los Angeles; Larry Bird, raised in Indiana and played in Boston; Michael Jordan was from North Carolina and played in Chicago. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was New York and played in Milwaukee/Los Angeles. Very rarely does a player play in the same area/city they grew up in. We all applaud LeBron James, but something deeper is going on. -- Stuart.

A: What was going on was his hometown team presented itself with more potential than the team he ended the season with. The narrative is convenient and undeniable, but there is so much more in play, including how the Heat looked (or didn't look) in the NBA Finals, his relationship with Erik Spoelstra, Pat Riley and Micky Arison. Ultimately, it was a four-year marriage and LeBron got possession of his former house in the breakup.

Q: Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis are going to be free agents in 2016. Isn't it better to have cap room to pursue those guys in that summer than to spend it now to make everybody feel better in this one? I understand you have to do right by Dwyane Wade and Udonis Haslem. But Chris Bosh would have gotten the money he opted out of on the open market anyways. -- Juan.

A: But you can't recruit with a blank slate. What's important is that the Heat get Wade his money back over the next two seasons, so it can be Bosh and more than enough cap space in 2016. The perfect answer is to simply give Wade back what he opted out from, two years at $42 million. But there now is a squeeze, making it difficult to also round out the current roster under the cap. As far as Haslem, a two-year deal at $3 million per season would seem to be the answer. The 2016 class very much could yet provide Riley with a shot a rebuilding redemption.

Q: So where does this leave the Heat? -- Tommy.

A: Thankfully they're in the East, where a roster with Bosh and Wade and a wing of decent quality still can put you in a fight for homecourt in the first round, sort of at the level of last season's Nets.

July 11, 2014

Q: Ira, the Nets, Cavaliers and Celtics announced their trade Thursday, and other teams introduced their new players, so what should we make of not a peep out of the Heat with Josh McRoberts and Danny Granger? -- Bruce.

A: That the NBA signing period moves in strange and mysterious ways. While the Heat agreed to salary framework with both McRoberts and Granger, they did not finalize the mechanisms with which they would be signed, since, amid the LeBron James delay, Pat Riley did not know if he would be working with cap space or salary-cap exceptions. Essentially, McRoberts and Granger will get their money as promised from the Heat, it's just a matter of how those salaries will be slotted into the Heat's salary cap. Riley took the extraordinary step of announcing the agreements before the actual signings, as if to assure the players, "Don't worry, this is getting done." Amid all the uncertainty, what is certain is that Josh McRoberts and Danny Granger will be in Heat uniforms come the start of training camp.

Q: How many players from this summer-league squad can we realistically expect to see on the Heat next year? Shabazz Napier is a lock, but what are the real chances for James Ennis or a return for Justin Hamilton? -- Andrew, Miami.

A: It's way too early for that, and, to a degree, I think some of these kids will get lost in the shuffle, with Erik Spoelstra and Pat Riley having far greater concerns at the moment. Ennis is intriguing, and the Heat way of business has been that if you step aside and play overseas for a year while allowing the team to retain your draft rights, the Heat will take care of you the following season. So I think Ennis sticks, if only with a non-guaranteed contract to start the season. With Hamilton, a decision has to be made by Aug. 1 on his partial guarantee, and that could set him back. I wouldn't be surprised to see the date for that guarantee changed.

Q: Forget the Big Three. Considering none of the other free agents from last season have signed, doesn't that say all that needed to be said about the Heat bench? -- Davis.

A: Not at all. The start of the free-agent signing period rarely is about supporting players. Plus, some of those players from the end of last season's bench were waiting to see how the Big Three situation shakes out. When you think about it, many of the Heat's bench players were late-offseason additions, and could be this offseason, as well.

July 10, 2014

Q: If LeBron James leaves, what happens to Dwyane Wade? Do you think the Heat sign Wade back at his two-year, $42 million deal or the four- or five-year deal we've been hearing about? I would go with the two-year deal since the Heat will be rebuilding and will need to get him off the books ASAP. -- Joel.

A: I agree. And I believe that was always a consideration. And then, after those two years if Dwyane wants to play on and stay with the Heat, he can do so at a more reasonable number that allows for the addition of talent. In fact, if LeBron were to return at a short deal, I think it's possible that everyone simply puts their money back on the books as it previously was, perhaps even Udonis Haslem. Of course, all this math is secondary to how LeBron resolves his equation. And, for now, at least at the time of this typing, we wait.

Q: Is waiting and waiting and waiting fair to Miami, or even fair to Cleveland? Is it too much to ask someone to make a decision? -- Marty.

A: In this case, with so many moving parts, it might be. While the Cavaliers opened enough cap space for LeBron to get his max deal in Cleveland, they clearly are not finished trying to put the best shine on their pitch. It could be as simple as LeBron waiting to see if the Cavaliers can lure Kevin Love, or waiting to see if Pat Riley can come up with another personnel move.

Q: I cannot endure another 15-67 season. I went to all those [2007-08] games. I was lured into believing something might become of Kasib Powell and Blake Ahearn. G-d help us all. -- Moshe.

A: We're not there yet. Yet.

July 9, 2014

Q: Ira, you are LeBron James sitting back and see Pat Riley sign Josh McRoberts and Danny Granger and then say he's out of cap space. What would you think? -- Dan.

A: First, it doesn't matter what I think. Second, LeBron is as smart as anyone when it comes to judging NBA landscapes. He knew what his desire for as maximum salary would do to the Heat's salary-cap position, and he knew which players likely weren't going to for below-market offers. So he had to sense that the upside could be McRoberts- and Granger-type players. He also had to recognize that such an approach could be the best way to keep his friend Ray Allen alongside with the Heat. Unlike fans who want each and every player regardless of sa